BMW continues to support Apple CarPlay in their vehicles, but argues that this feature is not active in the way everyone uses it. According to senior executive Stephan Durach, the public perception that “navigation with CarPlay is used everywhere” does not fully reflect the reality. The company makes this determination based on anonymous data collected from millions of vehicles.
According to the obtained information, drivers still keep their phones connected to the vehicle; however, when it comes to navigation, most preferences shift to BMW’s own built-in system. Durach admits that Apple CarPlay is actively used in vehicles; however, this usage is mostly limited to functions like listening to music, reading messages, or making phone calls. Navigation, on the other hand, is considered more accessible and comfortable via BMW’s native interface for their users. One of the main factors influencing this preference is the HUD (head-up display) system that comes with advanced technologies offered. This allows drivers to receive information without taking their eyes off the road.
Due to technical limitations, the approach against Apple CarPlay is based not only on habits but also on restrictions. The current version of CarPlay is not fully compatible with many BMW infotainment systems; specifically, vehicle interior data such as battery level does not appear via CarPlay, and basic controls like the climate control cannot be managed through this platform. According to Durach, these technical incompatibilities reinforce BMW’s decision to prioritize their own software solutions.
The upcoming new iX3, expected to be introduced in the near future, will feature an advanced head-up display projected onto the entire windshield. When combined with the new iDrive interface, this system will offer an experience that CarPlay currently cannot provide. Not only BMW, but some other manufacturers have also made efforts to deeply integrate CarPlay with in-vehicle screens. However, these efforts have not fully met user satisfaction expectations; visual mismatches and interface differences have negatively affected this experience.
The introduction of new versions like CarPlay Ultra aims to resolve these issues, but Apple’s strict control over the software presents another challenge. Brands do not want to design according to their own visions; Apple wants limited flexibility in the CarPlay interface. Despite this, CarPlay is still considered indispensable for drivers. While BMW’s data show that their own systems are preferred more, the decision ultimately depends on the driver’s choice behind the wheel.
In the future, updates from Apple and technology investments by automotive manufacturers will play a critical role in shaping driver preferences. The competition over which system is more practical, secure, and user-friendly is likely to maintain its pace for a while.
